During 2013-2015 (average) in Illinois, late preterm birth rates were highest for American Indian/Alaska Native infants (8.7%), followed by blacks (8.7%), Asian/Pacific Islanders (6.8%) and whites (6.8%).

Late preterm babies have higher rates of adverse birth outcomes than term infants. Late preterm babies are at higher risk for breathing problems, feeding difficulties, jaundice, difficulties regulating body temperature and death compared to term babies.